Author Description

In this revelatory memoir, Doctor Cynthia Li shares the truth about her disabling autoimmune illness, the limitations of Western medicine, and her hard-won lessons on healing—mind, body, and spirit. Li had it all: a successful career in medicine, a loving marriage, children on the horizon. But it all came crashingdown when, afterdeveloping an autoimmune thyroid condition, mysterious symptoms began consuming her body. Test after test cameback "within normal limits, " baffling her doctors—and baffling herself. Housebound with two youngchildren, Li began a solo odyssey from her living roomcouch to find a way to heal. Brave New Medicine details the physical andexistentialcrisis that forces a young doctor to question her own medical training. She dives intothe root causes of her illness, learning to unlock her body's innate intelligence and wholeness. Li relates her story with the insight of a scientist, and the humility and candor of a patient, exploring theemotional and spiritual shiftsbeyond the physical body. Millions ofpeople worldwide are affected by autoimmune disease. While complex conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) are gaining attention, patientsstrugglingwith these mysterious ailments remain largely dismissed by their doctors, families, andfriends. This is the harsh reality that doctor-turned-"difficult patient" Li faced firsthand. Drawing on cutting-edge science, ancient healing arts, and the power of intuition, this memoir offers support, validation, and a new perspective for doctors and patients alike. Through her story, you can find the wisdom and heart to start your ownhealing journey, too.